There has been a lot of smoke surrounding the Los Angeles Rams and their potential of drafting a quarterback in hopes of replacing Matthew Stafford longer term. The real question is whether there is fire underneath.
The Rams have been linked to a quarterback early in the draft order since they fleeced the Atlanta Falcons out of their 2026 first rounder by moving back last year. Many viewed the additional early pick as ammunition to move up for a quarterback. LA can have it both ways by using the extra selection on a quarterback while still coming away with a top prospect who can contribute as soon as 2026.
The quarterbacks take the field at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday. I have thoughts on quarterbacks who could be available in the Rams’ range.
Ty Simpson, Alabama
The more I watch Ty Simpson the more I understand the appeal. The fundamental problem, of course, is that there isn’t much tape to watch of him. Simpson is talented at layering throws and will stand in the pocket until the last minute to allow his receivers to come open.
But there are concerning plays where Simpson will lead his receivers into danger. His decision making can be a little reminiscent of Daniel Jones at Duke. Are these deeply rooted issues in his game or a symptom of a lack of playing time? His NFL future hinges on how teams answer this question.
Then there are the physical attributes, which are equally as difficult to discern. Simpson suffered a slew of injuries in his final year at Alabama to the extent where he developed gastritis from a reliance on pain killers. The condition dropped his weight to the range of 190 pounds as he was mainly on a liquid diet. He’s reportedly back up to 215 for the combine. He’s mobile enough but not the type of athlete you’d build around in the running game.
Cole Payton, North Dakota
North Dakota state quarterbacks don’t have the best track record in the NFL. Carson Wentz, Trey Lance, and Easton Stick all had potential but flamed out. Cole Payton is the next in the line.
Traditional draft analysts view Payton as a day three flier, and some have hinted towards a potential position change at the next level. He’s a rare athlete and could be taken much earlier than most expect.
SumerSports’ 2026 draft guide lists Payton as the third quarterback behind Fernando Mendoza and Simpson and gave the following preview of him:
Payton is a big, agile quarterback with explosive escapability and exceptional speed on designed runs. He shows uncanny accuracy at all three levels, excellent vertical touch, and the poise to make plays in and out of the pocket.
Payton ranked in the 100th percentile of EPA production both as a passer and a rusher. His average depth of target was more than 12 yards down the field and he had a tough throw ratio of 1%. It’s clear that what he’ll be asked to do as a professional quarterback is much different than he was tasked with at North Dakota. The Bisons were loaded with talent for most of his college career.
However, for a team like the Rams who don’t need a quarterback right away, Payton could be a worthy stash and develop prospect.
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